Ma Durga,
the mother goddess who conquerors demons on the battlefield, is also known as
Durgatiharini- the remover of misfortune. With her presence, she wards off the
visible and invisible foes.
Goddess
Durga is mounted on her lion, who is sitting down comfortably. Devi is present
in this brass idol as Ashtabhuja- eight-armed, carrying powerful weapons. Ma
Durga holds a lotus bud, a fortuitous symbol associated with mother goddesses.
Her right hand raised in the gesture of fearlessness assures the troubled mind,
reminding it of the transcendent presence of the Ashtabhujadhari Durga.
Divine Strength and Maternal Protection
Embrace the divine power and protective aura of Goddess Durga with this exquisite brass figurine. Crafted by skilled artisans in India, this statue embodies the multifaceted nature of the Mother Goddess. The word "Ashtabhuja-dhari" itself translates to "one who holds eight arms," a testament to her immense power and her ability to act in multiple directions simultaneously. Each of her eight hands is adorned with sacred attributes, symbolizing her diverse powers and her role as the destroyer of evil.
The Goddess is depicted in a serene yet powerful posture, seated majestically upon her vahana, the lion. The lion, a symbol of courage, royalty, and strength, perfectly complements Durga's formidable presence. This imagery draws from ancient tales where Durga, in her fierce form as Simhavahini, defeats formidable demons like Mahishasura, thereby restoring cosmic order and protecting the universe. Her tranquil expression on the statue belies the immense power she wields, reminding us of the balance between ferocity and compassion that defines her divine persona.
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A Symbol of Auspiciousness and Devotion
This meticulously handcrafted brass statue is more than just an artifact; it is a conduit of blessings and a focal point for devotion. In Hindu traditions, Durga is revered as the supreme goddess, the mother of all creation, and the ultimate slayer of demons. Her worship is particularly prominent during the Navaratri festival, a nine-night celebration dedicated to her victory over evil. Bringing this representation of Durga into your home or sacred space is believed to invite good fortune, ward off negativity, and foster a sense of peace and security. The inherent beauty of the brass, with its warm golden hue and subtle green patina, adds to the statue's timeless appeal, making it a cherished heirloom for generations to come. Each detail, from the intricate carvings on her garments to the majestic mane of the lion, speaks of the devotion and artistry invested in its creation. This piece serves as a constant reminder of the divine feminine power that protects and nourishes the world.
The Fierce and Powerful Goddess Durga: Discovering the Symbolism
and Significance
Goddess Durga is a revered deity in Hinduism and she is
worshiped by many people in the eastern part of India and also
in other countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh. She is
considered the mother of this material world who takes care of
the conditioned souls trapped in the material existence. She
protects them from the demons who threaten peace and establishes
Dharma. In the Shakta tradition or Shaktism (those who believe
that feminine energy is supreme), Mother Durga has been given
the highest position. She is often considered the expansion of
Mother Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva who is the destroyer
of the material world. The Vaishnavas consider Mother Durga as
the external energy of the Supreme Lord Krishna or Vishnu. She
takes charge of the material world and reforms those souls who
do not abide by the rules of the Supreme Lord.
Mother Durga is often depicted as a young and beautiful woman,
wearing a saree, and sitting on a tiger or lion. She has
multiple arms (usually ten arms) that hold different items and
weapons that express her martial skills. She tramples down the
demon Mahishasura, with her trident, representing the subduer of
vices.
What does Durga symbolize?
Being the powerful assistant of the Supreme Lord, Mother Durga
tests our dedication to the Lord. She represents the material
nature and like a loving mother, she gives a clarion call to all
forgetful souls to turn their faces towards Lord Krishna, who is
the only well-wisher of all living entities. The depiction of
her violently killing the demon Mahishasura with her trident
shows her extraordinary prowess. Mahishasura represents our
demoniac mentality that wants to enjoy separately from the
Supreme Lord, forgetting our eternal relationship with Him.
Goddess Durga killing the demon symbolizes the victory of good
over evil or wisdom over ignorance.
Where are Durga statues made in Kolkata?
The worship of Goddess Durga is prominent in festivals such as
Durga Puja, Durga Ashtami, Navaratri, etc. On those days, people
gather at a place and a big idol or deity of Goddess Durga is
worshiped with faith and devotion. These idols of the Goddess
are made in a place called Kumortuli, located near Kolkata, West
Bengal. This city is renowned for its beautiful clay sculptures
made by local manufacturers.
Can we keep Durga idol at home?
You can keep a Durga deity at your home if you want to attract
her mercy into your life. Goddess Durga is very merciful toward
her devotees and when pleased, she bestows them with both
material and spiritual benefits. Those who approach and worship
Goddess Durga with material desires in their hearts, she
fulfills them. But if a person genuinely approaches her and
prays to her to reveal about the Absolute Truth and the real
goal of human life to them, being the superintendent of the
Supreme Lord Vishnu, she blesses them with the light of
knowledge about the Lord and inspires them to walk the path of
devotion to Lord Vishnu.